The Oliva Serie G Maduro Presidente stands out with its imposing 8" x 52 parejo shape, making it one of the boldest entries in Oliva's Maduro lineup. Wrapped in oily Mexican San Andrés leaf, this Nicaraguan puro delivers 90 minutes of evolving flavors that keep pace with its slow-burning nature. While sized like a Churchill, the Presidente version brings extra girth that amplifies the core notes from Connecticut Broadleaf fermentation.
The cold draw releases molasses sweetness through slightly tight airflow. Initial combustion brings charred oak and black coffee undertones, with a creamy texture that coats the palate. Smoke output remains moderate - neither fog-machine dense nor wispy.
At the 45-minute mark, roasted almond and bitter cocoa emerge. The ash holds firm in 1.5" segments, though requires one minor touch-up. Retrohale reveals hidden cinnamon spice that tempers the earthiness. Burn line stays within 1mm variance throughout.
Last third introduces leathery tang with increased nicotine presence. Tar buildup becomes noticeable past the band point, suggesting optimal smoking stop before nubbing. Lingering aftertaste carries dark cherry nuances that last 15+ minutes post-session.
Most samples show minimal wrapper flaws, though the box-pressed foot occasionally creates initial lighting challenges. Binder combustion proved consistent across three samples tested at 65% humidity. The triple cap unravels cleanly, avoiding common Maduro wrapper cracks.
Hand-rolled in Estelí using Gilberto Oliva's signature "double fermentation" process for the Maduro wrapper. The San Andrés leaf undergoes 18-month aging in pilones before wrapping Nicaraguan fillers from Jalapa and Condega. This 2006 Cigar Aficionado Top 25 alum remains one of Oliva's most accessible Maduro expressions.
